How To Appeal a Social Security Disability DenialThough the statistics vary somewhat from state to state, nationwide about 65% of all disability claims are denied on the first application. Luckily, receiving a denial does not mean that...Reactions0reactionsComments4 comments
Your "Unusual" Symptoms with COPDMost people living with COPD are well aware of, and have much experience with, the common symptoms that come along with it. Shortness of breath, persistent coughing, wheezing, and fatigue...Reactions0reactionsComments2 comments
The Cycle of Infections, Exacerbations, and StressSo often I read in the groups of people being depressed and stressed due to the amount of exacerbation and infections their COPD has caused. Well, perhaps it's time you...Reactions0reactionsComments15 comments
Why Quitting Smoking Can Prolong Your LifeI frequently hear questions like, “Why should I quit smoking, the damage is already done?” or “I quit smoking, but I don’t feel any different?” At times like this I...Reactions0reactionsComments3 comments
What Happens If I Am Denied A Lung Transplant?This is a question that I can answer from personal experience. In 2009, mom was given the opportunity to go through a thorough evaluation at the Duke Transplant Center at...Reactions0reactionsComments0 comments
Community Tips: Staying Active with COPDWhen living with COPD, every day can be unique. Some days, independence and activity may come easily, while other days, it may be an uphill battle just to get out...Reactions0reactionsComments10 comments
What Tests Should I Expect During a Lung Transplant Evaluation?Once you have been accepted into the evaluation process, you will be scheduled for tests ranging from physical therapy assessment to heart catheterization. Each test is important and must be...Reactions0reactionsComments0 comments
Alpha-1 Deficiency: Were You Tested?Whether you are newly diagnosed with COPD or a 30-year veteran, Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency might be a new concept for you. While Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a considered a...Reactions0reactionsComments48 comments
Live for TodayHaving a chronic illness such as COPD can cause one to blame themselves for their disease. They feel guilty over things they did in the past such as smoking and...Reactions0reactionsComments6 comments
The Lung Transplant Evaluation TeamDuring your lung transplant evaluation, you will meet with a large team of physicians, social workers, physical therapists, psychologists and dietitians. It is easy for that one idea to become...Reactions0reactionsComments0 comments
Testing for COPD - Part II: Breathing TestsThis is Part II of my experience with diagnostic testing for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. (Click here to read Part I.) When I was being diagnosed with COPD, I took...Reactions0reactionsComments5 comments
Expert Answers: Showering With COPDMany people in the community have talked about the discomfort and challenges of showering when one has COPD. So we asked our experts for their ideas on the topic. Check...Reactions0reactionsComments37 comments
Community Feedback: Managing Changing SeasonsDepending on where you live, the months of April and May mean spring weather – the transition between harsh winter and humid summer. And October means fall. In many ways...Reactions0reactionsComments0 comments
The Transplant Evaluation RequestMaybe you have heard of someone going through a transplant or maybe you have contributed financially to help someone else. However, I imagine that you never thought you would be...Reactions0reactionsComments3 comments
Expert Answers: Steroid BruisingHave you ever experienced bruising, yet have no idea where the bruises came from? Read on for information from our expert respiratory therapists about steroid bruising and COPD. Our experts...Reactions0reactionsComments6 comments
What Is A Lung Transplant Evaluation?Once you have been accepted into the lung transplant evaluation process, you will go through extensive testing. In the initial meetings with the team, you will learn what is expected...Reactions0reactionsComments0 comments
Workplace Discrimination – Know Your Workplace Rights When you live with a chronic illness or disability, it can sometimes be difficult to function in the workplace. However, many workers who are struggling may be reluctant to speak...Reactions0reactionsComments3 comments
Bevespi® Inhaler Approved by FDAMany of you may have seen the recent press release about the new drug Bevespi® that has been approved for COPD by the FDA. This new medication combines 2 classes...Reactions0reactionsComments1 comments
Does the Word Hospice Scare You?When most people think of hospice, the first thing that enters their mind is death and dying with peace and dignity. I have been at death's door and seen the...Reactions0reactionsComments7 comments
Testing for COPD - Part I: Imaging TestsThis is Part I of my experience with diagnostic testing for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. (Click here to read Part II.) There are several kinds of tests that can help...Reactions0reactionsComments2 comments